Method for activating a self-contained biological indicator

A method of activating a self-contained biological indicator using a device having a first lever arm and a second lever arm wherein a cavity is formed in said first lever arm and said first lever arm is movable relative to said second lever arm, said biological indicator including a casing and a cap disposed on said casing, said cap movable between an open position and a sealed position relative to said casing and said casing defining an interior cavity dimensioned to receive microorganisms and an ampule having a growth-promoting medium disposed therein, said method comprising the steps of:

• a) moving said device to an open position wherein said cavity of said first lever arm is accessible;
• b) locating a biological indicator in said cavity of said first lever arm while said device is in said open position;
• and
• c) moving said device to a closed position to activate said biological indicator, wherein said second lever arm of said device is moved relative to said first lever arm, said step of moving said device to said closed position includes:
• 1) applying a compressive force to said cap of said biological indicator located in said cavity of said first lever arm to move said cap to said sealed position;
• and
• 2) after said cap is in said sealed position, deforming said casing of said biological indicator thereby fracturing said ampule within said casing to expose said microorganisms within said interior cavity of said casing to said growth promoting medium in said ampule.